Cow’s horn engraved, England circa 1712

A cow’s horn engraved by a patient of Bedlem.

English, circa 1712.

The horn measures 53cm in length.

The horn is engraved with the words:

‘Joseph Lavaley a gentleman’s son was confined 7 years in Bedlim for the loss of his dear - 1712’.

It is possible that the term Bedlim (or Bedlam) refers to the famous Saint Mary of Bethlehem hospital, however over time it became a term used for all mental hospitals and to describe places of mayhem or madness.

Further graffiti is engraved to the horn including the date ‘1795’ and the initials ‘IT’ and ‘TW’.

At the large open end there are the remnants of a hinged metal mount

It is sat upon a metal display stand.